Weight Loss Injectables

Weight loss injections work by mimicking hormones in your body that control appetite and blood sugar. They slow down the rate at which food leaves your stomach, making you feel fuller for longer periods. This naturally reduces your calorie intake and helps with weight loss. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) works on both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, while semaglutide (Wegovy) primarily targets GLP-1 receptors.

The NHS currently approves two main weight loss injections: semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro). Both medications are available through specialist weight management services, and Mounjaro has began being made available through some GP practices for eligible patients.

Weight loss injections approved by the NHS have undergone rigorous clinical trials and are considered safe when prescribed and monitored by healthcare professionals. They must be prescribed alongside dietary and lifestyle support to ensure maximum benefits and safety.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain, and loss of appetite. These side effects are typically mild to moderate and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. More serious but rare side effects can include pancreatitis and gallbladder problems. Your healthcare provider will monitor you for any adverse reactions.

Most people begin to notice some weight loss within the first few weeks of starting treatment, but significant results typically become apparent after 2-3 months. The medications are usually prescribed for long-term use, with clinical studies showing continued weight loss over 15+ months when combined with lifestyle changes.

To be eligible for NHS weight loss injections, you typically need to have a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or above with weight-related health conditions, or a BMI of 30+ with specific health issues like type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. You must also demonstrate that you’ve tried other weight loss methods. The treatment is prescribed through specialist weight management services or, increasingly, through GP practices for those with the highest clinical need.

Weight loss injections can be highly effective when used as part of a comprehensive weight management programme including dietary changes and increased physical activity. Clinical studies show average weight losses of 13-20% of body weight, which can significantly improve health outcomes. However, they require ongoing commitment to lifestyle changes and regular medical monitoring.

Clinical studies show that people using Wegovy lose an average of 15% of their body weight, while those using Mounjaro lose around 20% of their starting weight. Individual results vary, but many people lose 1-2 pounds per week when the medication is combined with appropriate diet and exercise support from healthcare professionals.

NHS waiting times vary significantly by region and are currently being expanded gradually. With the rollout of Mounjaro through GP practices beginning in June 2025, access is improving, but there may still be waiting periods as services are implemented. Those with the highest clinical need are prioritised, and the service is being rolled out in phases across different areas.

Yes, weight loss injections are available privately through regulated online pharmacies and private clinics. Private treatment typically allows faster access and may have less restrictive eligibility criteria than NHS services. However, it’s important to ensure you use a legitimate, regulated provider that offers proper medical supervision and support.

Your choice of weight loss injectable depends on your individual medical circumstances and what your prescriber determines is most suitable for you. While you can express a preference for either Wegovy or Mounjaro, the final decision rests with your healthcare provider based on your medical history, current health conditions, and clinical suitability for each medication.

When you stop taking weight loss injections, you may gradually regain some of the weight you lost, as the appetite-suppressing effects wear off. This is why the medications are typically prescribed as long-term treatments rather than short-term solutions. Maintaining the dietary and lifestyle changes learned during treatment is crucial for sustaining weight loss results after discontinuing the medication.